Hempcrete leap: Lack of processors, standards create barriers to expanding hemp use in construction

Great article by Monica Raymunt from Hemp Industry Daly

(This is the second installment of a two-part story on the prospects for hemp-derived construction materials in the post-coronavirus era. The first part can be read here.)

HempFlax’s acquisition of Germany’s natural fiber insulation manufacturer Thermo Natur last month provided an example of how an established hemp growing and processing operation can further diversify its product portfolio and protect itself from volatility in specific markets – namely CBD.

Hemp-based building materials have captured the imagination of innovators and activists for their potential to reduce construction industry emissions and create the carbon-neutral economy that the EU is striving for.

But before hempcrete insulation can become more than a niche market, it needs to overcome the hurdles presented by the global dearth of processing facilities and missing hemp-building standards in the U.S.

Read more... 

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